Owner Award 2023



2023 Thomas "Tommy" Rawls Distinguished Owner Award


The Thomas "Tommy" Rawls Distinguished Owner Award is given annually to an individual who has demonstrated leadership in the advancement of effective design-build practices and in the promotion of design-build as a project delivery method of choice. The award is named in honor of Tommy Rawls (1967 - 2021). Tommy personified the ultimate design-builder by always applying best practices to enhance success in all of his undertakings. He was a leader in the truest sense and used his strengths as a team and relationship builder, collaborator, problem solver, educator, encourager, cheerleader, salesman, and best and trusted friend to organize and guide his teams to successful outcomes. 


In his role as a project manager on complex wastewater, water and transportation projects, Tommy always searched for better ways. He learned all he could about design-build as he got actively engaged in DBIA at national, regional and chapter levels.



JEFF SIDDLE, P.E., VICE PRESIDENT - PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT, TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT


Jeff Siddle directs and oversees the management of activities relating to the programming, planning, design and construction in support of the Tampa International Airport's capital improvement program. During his 18 years with the airport he has embraced the design-build process. During procurement he utilizes the RFQ process without a second stage as the primary selection tool. He understands that dollars should not be a driver in the selection while also establishing a consistent and transparent scoring system for the RFQ process allowing for expanded competition while ensuring that only the most capable are awarded.


Jeff also encourages "Meet and Greets" as an opportunity to get to know the design-build teams. He embodies Progressive Design-Build (PDB) by engaging the design-build team at the concept stage of design allowing for creativity from the team while maintaining a collegial feel. Jeff is actively engaged throughout the construction process and encourages a solution driven philosophy among the team.